China Thanks India for Swift Rescue of Fire-Hit Cargo Ship
In a rare and public diplomatic gesture, China has extended its gratitude to India for the timely and professional rescue of crew members from the fire-stricken container ship MV Wan Hai 503. The vessel, sailing under the Singaporean flag, caught fire on June 9 approximately 44 nautical miles off the coast of Azhikkal, Kerala, after an onboard explosion near the accommodation block and mid-ship area.
Cargo Ship Fire Off Kerala Coast
The incident occurred while the MV Wan Hai 503 was en route from Colombo to Nhava Sheva. A sudden explosion led to a fire in the forward container bay, which then spread dangerously close to the crew quarters. Despite efforts to contain the blaze, the vessel began to list portside by nearly 15 degrees, and several containers were seen falling into the sea. Heavy smoke continued to pour from the vessel hours after the initial blast.
India’s Coordinated Rescue Response
The Indian Navy and Coast Guard responded with speed and precision. INS Surat successfully evacuated 18 crew members from the distressed vessel and transported them safely to the New Mangalore Port. The injured were given emergency medical treatment, with those severely burnt admitted to AJ Hospital in Kuntikana.
The Indian Coast Guard deployed multiple vessels, including Samudra Prahari, Sachet, Rajdoot, Arnvesh, and Samarth. These assets engaged in sustained firefighting and boundary cooling operations. Additionally, surveillance aircraft such as the Dornier were pressed into service for aerial assessments and to drop firefighting chemicals.
China Lauds India’s Efforts
The Chinese government, acknowledging the rescue of 14 Chinese nationals (including six from Taiwan) onboard, publicly praised India’s humanitarian action. In a statement, a spokesperson from the Chinese Embassy expressed appreciation for the “prompt and professional” operation by Indian forces and extended best wishes for the ongoing search and recovery efforts.
Ongoing Safety and Monitoring
Even as firefighting efforts reduced the intensity of the blaze, the ship remained adrift with intermittent flames still emerging from its charred containers. The Indian Coast Guard is continuing containment and cooling operations, while the National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has warned that debris from the incident may wash ashore along the Kerala coastline. Authorities have been advised to prepare for environmental and navigational hazards in the days ahead.
This episode has not only demonstrated India’s maritime readiness and rescue capabilities but also added a positive note in bilateral maritime cooperation, as India’s swift response saved lives at sea and was openly acknowledged by its regional neighbor.
